18812, Brackney, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Overall Health Score in 18812, Brackney, Pennsylvania is 11 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 92.39 percent of the residents in 18812 has some form of health insurance. 45.40 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 66.56 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 18812 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 202 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18812. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 396 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 256 health care providers accessible to residents in 18812, Brackney, Pennsylvania.

## Overall Health Score Analysis: Brackney, PA (ZIP Code 18812)

Assessing the overall health landscape within ZIP code 18812, encompassing the community of Brackney, Pennsylvania, requires a multifaceted approach. This analysis will evaluate the availability of primary care physicians, the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of telemedicine, the accessibility of mental health resources, and the presence of standout medical practices. The goal is to provide a comprehensive 'Overall Health Score' for this specific area.

One of the most critical metrics is the physician-to-patient ratio. This figure directly impacts access to care. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per resident, can lead to longer wait times for appointments, reduced opportunities for preventative care, and a general strain on the healthcare system. Determining the exact ratio for 18812 requires data from sources like the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the U.S. Census Bureau, but it’s likely that a rural area like Brackney faces challenges in this area. The national average is often used as a benchmark, and any significant deviation from this average warrants further investigation.

The availability of primary care physicians is the cornerstone of a healthy community. Primary care doctors serve as the first point of contact for most health concerns, providing essential services like routine checkups, vaccinations, and management of chronic conditions. The geographic distribution of these physicians is crucial. Are they clustered in one area, leaving other parts of Brackney underserved? Are there enough doctors to meet the needs of the population, including children, adults, and the elderly? This involves examining the number of family physicians, general practitioners, and internal medicine specialists practicing within the ZIP code and its immediate vicinity.

Identifying standout practices is vital. These are medical facilities that demonstrate excellence in patient care, innovation, and community engagement. This involves considering factors like patient satisfaction scores, the use of electronic health records, and participation in quality improvement programs. Some practices may specialize in specific areas, such as geriatric care or pediatric medicine, which can be particularly valuable in serving the diverse needs of the community. Researching reviews, testimonials, and awards received by local practices can help identify those that consistently provide high-quality care.

Telemedicine adoption is another key factor. Telemedicine, the practice of providing healthcare services remotely via technology, can significantly improve access to care, especially in rural areas where travel distances can be a barrier. The availability of telehealth appointments for primary care, specialist consultations, and mental health services can greatly enhance the overall health score. Assessing the technological infrastructure, such as broadband internet access, is also crucial for successful telemedicine implementation.

Mental health resources are an indispensable component of overall well-being. The analysis must consider the availability of psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and counselors within the 18812 area. Are there mental health clinics, support groups, and crisis intervention services available? The prevalence of mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, requires adequate resources to address these concerns effectively. Assessing the accessibility of mental health services, including insurance coverage and wait times, is also essential.

The overall health score for Brackney, PA, will be influenced by the interplay of these factors. A high score indicates robust access to primary care, a favorable physician-to-patient ratio, widespread telemedicine adoption, and comprehensive mental health resources. Conversely, a low score suggests potential challenges in accessing healthcare services, which may necessitate targeted interventions to improve the health and well-being of the community.

A critical component of this analysis is the geographical distribution of healthcare resources. Knowing where doctors, clinics, and mental health facilities are located is essential for understanding accessibility. This can involve mapping the locations of healthcare providers and overlaying them with demographic data, such as population density and age distribution. This spatial analysis can help identify areas that are underserved and highlight potential disparities in access to care.

The quality of care is another important consideration. This involves evaluating the performance of healthcare providers and facilities based on various metrics, such as patient outcomes, adherence to clinical guidelines, and patient satisfaction. Data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) can provide valuable insights into the quality of care provided in the area.

Another consideration is the impact of socioeconomic factors on health outcomes. Poverty, lack of education, and limited access to healthy food can all negatively affect health. Analyzing the socioeconomic profile of the community can help identify areas where targeted interventions are needed to address health disparities. This might involve programs to improve access to healthy food, provide education about health and wellness, and address the social determinants of health.

The analysis also considers the availability of preventive care services. These services, such as vaccinations, screenings for cancer and other diseases, and health education programs, are essential for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases. Assessing the availability and utilization of these services can help identify areas where improvements are needed.

In conclusion, assessing the overall health score for Brackney, PA, requires a holistic approach that considers the availability of healthcare providers, the quality of care, the adoption of technology, the accessibility of mental health resources, and the impact of socioeconomic factors. The final score should reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the local healthcare system and provide a basis for developing strategies to improve the health and well-being of the community.

To visualize the healthcare landscape in Brackney, PA (ZIP code 18812) and gain a deeper understanding of the distribution of resources, consider exploring the interactive mapping capabilities of CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome maps can provide a visual representation of physician locations, clinic locations, and other healthcare resources, allowing for a more comprehensive and insightful analysis.